6 Best Air Tank Mounts For Vehicle Exterior Storage Setups

An exterior air tank transforms a standard vehicle into a capable adventure rig, ensuring tires are trail-ready at a moment’s notice. Mounting these heavy, pressurized canisters securely is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety requirement for rugged terrain. Choosing the right bracket determines whether equipment stays put on washboard roads or becomes a dangerous liability in the backcountry.

09/25/2026 07:12 am GMT

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Power Tank Super Bracket: Best Overall Tank Mount

The Power Tank Super Bracket is the gold standard for those who demand absolute security for their high-pressure air systems. Its dual-locking mechanism ensures the tank remains vibration-free even when tackling high-speed gravel tracks or technical rock crawling. The heavy-duty steel construction provides peace of mind that the mount will withstand years of exposure to the elements.

Precision engineering allows for quick release without compromising the integrity of the hold. While it carries a premium price point, the durability and ease of use justify the investment for dedicated overlanders. This is the definitive choice for anyone who uses their CO2 system frequently and needs a bulletproof mounting solution.

Front Runner Tank Bracket: Best for Roof Systems

Roof rack storage requires a balance of low-profile design and immense structural integrity. The Front Runner Tank Bracket excels here, integrating seamlessly into the T-slot channels common on modern roof racks. Its slim architecture minimizes wind drag and noise, which are critical factors for long-distance highway travel before hitting the trailhead.

The mounting hardware is specifically designed to distribute weight across the rack’s load bars, preventing localized stress fractures. It is ideally suited for adventurers who need to maximize bed space for coolers and recovery gear by shifting heavy air infrastructure upward. If the goal is a sleek, unobtrusive setup that utilizes the full potential of a rack system, this is the bracket to choose.

Smittybilt 2829 CO2 Mount: The Best Budget Option

For those who view gear as a tool rather than a status symbol, the Smittybilt 2829 offers reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives. It utilizes a robust, no-nonsense strap-and-clamp design that holds standard CO2 tanks firmly in place. While it lacks the rapid-release bells and whistles of high-end units, it delivers exactly what is promised: a secure anchor for under-vehicle or bed-mounted setups.

Installation is straightforward, and the steel frame provides plenty of rigidity for most moderate trail conditions. It is perfect for weekend warriors who need a functional air setup without breaking the budget. If gear utility is the priority over aesthetic or ease-of-access features, this mount earns its place on the rig.

VIAIR 90005 Tank Bracket: Best for Onboard Air

Onboard air systems require permanent, vibration-resistant mounting for smaller, fixed-tank installations. The VIAIR 90005 bracket is engineered specifically for these compact, integrated setups, providing a snug fit that prevents shifting. Its small footprint allows it to be tucked away in tight engine bays or chassis frame rails where space is at a premium.

Because it is built for fixed tanks, it eliminates the need for frequent removal or adjustment. The heavy-gauge steel construction handles the constant vibration of a compressor system without fatiguing over time. For those building a permanent air infrastructure, this bracket is the most reliable, purpose-built component on the market.

Quick Fist XL Clamp System: Most Versatile Mount

The Quick Fist XL is a departure from traditional rigid brackets, offering a rubberized, tension-based hold that adapts to various diameters. It is the ultimate solution for those who swap out equipment frequently or have irregular storage requirements. The heavy-duty, UV-resistant rubber ensures the tank won’t slide or rattle against metal surfaces during rough transit.

Versatility comes with a caveat; this mount is best suited for secondary support or low-center-of-gravity applications rather than heavy, high-pressure tanks mounted in high-stress areas. It is an excellent choice for internal bed storage or modular setups where rigid metal brackets won’t fit. If the priority is adaptability and protecting the finish of the equipment, these clamps are an essential addition to any build.

ARB Air Tank Bracket: Most Durable Metal Mount

ARB is synonymous with reliability in the harshest environments, and their air tank bracket is no exception. Constructed from powder-coated steel, it is designed to resist rust and corrosion in humid or salty environments. The fit and finish are exceptional, ensuring that the tank sits perfectly flush, which prevents the minor movements that lead to hardware failure.

This bracket is built for those who spend more time on remote, multi-day routes than on paved roads. Its rigidity is unmatched, providing a rock-solid foundation that protects the tank from the constant jarring of uneven terrain. For the serious explorer who demands equipment that outlasts the vehicle, this is the definitive, long-term mounting solution.

How to Choose the Right Tank Mount for Your Rig

• Determine Tank Type: High-pressure CO2 tanks require locking, heavy-duty brackets, while fixed onboard air tanks work well with bolt-on steel cradles.
• Evaluate Mounting Surface: Ensure the roof rack or bed rail can support the combined weight of the tank and the mount, especially on rough terrain.
• Access Frequency: Choose quick-release mechanisms for tanks that are frequently removed for refilling or remote use.
• Space Constraints: Measure the diameter and length of the tank against available mounting real estate, keeping in mind the footprint of the bracket hardware.

Vibration and Safety: Securing Exterior Air Tanks

Exterior-mounted tanks are subject to intense vibrations, which can loosen fasteners and cause catastrophic damage if a tank breaks free. Always use locking washers or thread-locking compound on all mounting bolts to prevent them from backing out on washboard roads. Inspect the bracket and hardware after every major trip to identify early signs of metal fatigue or loose connections.

The center of gravity is also a major safety concern when mounting to a roof rack. Keep tanks mounted as low and as close to the center of the vehicle as possible to prevent excessive body roll or compromised handling. When in doubt, prioritize a location that keeps the weight stable during emergency maneuvers.

Installation Tips for Roof Racks and Bed Systems

Installation success relies on proper weight distribution and surface preparation. When mounting to roof rack T-slots, ensure the sliding nuts are properly seated and tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications. For bed-mounted systems, consider drilling through the floor or side panels and using backing plates to distribute the load across a larger surface area rather than just a single bolt point.

Never mount an air tank directly to plastic trim or flimsy body panels. Always tie into the vehicle’s structural frame or reinforced rack systems. A few extra minutes spent using a rubber vibration-dampening pad between the bracket and the metal surface can significantly extend the lifespan of both the tank and the mounting hardware.

Weatherproofing and Maintaining Your Tank Bracket

Outdoor environments take a toll on metal brackets, leading to corrosion that can compromise strength. Periodically inspect the powder coating on your brackets; if the surface is scratched, touch it up immediately with an enamel paint to prevent rust from spreading underneath the coating. Keep the locking mechanisms of quick-release brackets clean and lubricated with a dry-film silicone spray to ensure they function when temperatures drop.

In areas with road salt or high humidity, pay extra attention to the areas where the bracket meets the tank. Trapped moisture in these gaps can cause localized oxidation. Regularly removing the tank to clean both the cradle and the tank exterior is a simple maintenance step that prevents long-term degradation.

Properly securing an exterior air tank is the final step in finishing a reliable adventure rig. By choosing the right mount for the terrain and maintaining it with care, the gear remains a dependable asset rather than a liability. Focus on security and structural integrity, and hit the trail with the confidence that the equipment will be ready to perform when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an exterior air tank mount for an off-road vehicle?

An exterior air tank mount is a specialized steel or aluminum bracket that secures a compressed air reservoir to a vehicle’s frame, bed rail, or roof rack. These brackets keep 1-gallon to 5-gallon onboard air tanks firmly in place over rough trails. Most designs use heavy-duty band clamps or bolt-on saddles to distribute weight evenly and prevent metal fatigue from chassis flex. Proper mounting ensures easy air hose access for airing up tires.

What is a rubber isolator bracket on an air tank mount?

Rubber isolator brackets are flexible rubber or polyurethane dampeners that absorb road shocks between the vehicle chassis and the air tank mounting hardware. Off-road driving subjects metal air tanks to constant vibration, which can shear standard Grade 5 bolts or crack weld seams. Adding 70-durometer rubber isolators cushions the tank against low-frequency frame shudder and reduces cabin resonance when an onboard compressor fills the tank up to 150 PSI.

How do I install an air tank mount on a truck frame rail?

Installing an air tank mount on a frame rail requires clamping the bracket in place, drilling through the steel with a cobalt bit, and bolting it with Grade 8 fasteners. Begin by verifying clearance around brake lines, fuel lines, and exhaust heat shields. Mark your pilot holes, drill using cutting oil, and torque 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch Grade 8 bolts to roughly 35 foot-pounds. Use nylon-insert lock nuts to prevent trail vibrations from backing hardware out.

How do I prevent rust on an exterior vehicle air tank mount?

Preventing rust on an exterior air tank mount requires sealing the bare metal hardware with fluid film, zinc-rich primer, or high-durability powder coating. Road salt and moisture quickly corrode raw steel brackets mounted under the chassis. Coat all drilled frame holes with self-etching primer before installation, and apply a lanolin-based corrosion inhibitor spray twice a year. If using stainless steel hardware against aluminum brackets, apply anti-seize paste to stop galvanic corrosion.

Are steel or aluminum air tank mounts better for wet exterior environments?

Aluminum air tank mounts are better for wet exterior environments because aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer that resists rust and road salt corrosion. Steel mounts offer higher tensile strength for extreme rock crawling, but they will rust quickly if rock chips pierce their powder coat. Marine-grade 5052 or 6061 aluminum brackets weigh about 60 percent less than steel brackets while easily supporting standard 2.5-gallon tanks under normal off-road stress.

How much does a heavy-duty vehicle exterior air tank mount cost?

Heavy-duty vehicle exterior air tank mounts typically cost between $40 and $180, depending on the material, tank capacity, and mounting style. Basic universal steel strap kits for 2-gallon tanks start around $40 to $65. High-end CNC-machined billet aluminum brackets, roll bar clamp kits, or model-specific chassis mounts with integrated compressor plates range from $120 to $250. Factor in an additional $15 to $30 for Grade 8 hardware and anti-vibration bushings if not included.

Why is my vehicle exterior air tank mount cracking near the bolt holes?

Metal air tank mounts crack near bolt holes due to overtightened hardware, severe chassis flex, or missing vibration-damping isolators. Torquing bolts beyond factory specs thins the metal and creates micro-fractures that spread during off-road impacts. To resolve this issue, replace the cracked bracket with a thicker 3/16-inch plate mount, use heavy-duty fender washers to distribute clamping loads, and insert polyurethane bushings between the mount and frame to absorb torsional movement.

Is it safe to mount a compressed air tank under a vehicle chassis?

Mounting a compressed air tank under a vehicle chassis is safe as long as the tank sits above the frame rails and clear of exhaust heat. Never install an air tank below the lowest point of your skid plates, where rocks or trail debris can puncture the pressure vessel. Keep the tank and air lines at least 8 to 12 inches away from catalytic converters and exhaust pipes, and always orient the tank drain valve downward.